Finding the best external DVD/CD drive for your Mac can enhance your media and data experience. These devices offer a convenient way to access and store data on physical discs.
For Mac users, choosing the right external DVD/CD drive is crucial. Whether you’re backing up files, watching movies, or installing software, these drives provide essential functionality. Many options are available, but not all deliver the same performance or compatibility. Some drives are slim and portable, perfect for on-the-go use, while others offer additional features like M-DISC support for long-term data preservation.
USB 3. 0 and USB-C connections ensure fast data transfer speeds, compatible with most Macs. This post will guide you through the best options available, helping you make an informed decision that suits your needs and enhances your Mac experience.
Amicool External Dvd Drive Usb 3.0 Usb C Cd Burner

The Amicool External DVD Drive USB 3.0 USB C is ideal for users who need a reliable and portable optical drive solution compatible with a wide range of devices. If you own a laptop, desktop PC, MacBook, or other systems running Windows 11/10/8/7, Mac, Linux OS and require an external CD/DVD burner or rewriter, this slim drive is designed for you. It is perfect for those who often work with physical media, whether for data backup, media playback, or software installation.
Pros:
- USB 3.0 and USB-C connectivity for fast data transfer and broad compatibility
- Slim and portable design makes it easy to carry and use on the go
- Supports CD/DVD +/-RW formats allowing both reading and writing functions
- Compatible with multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac, and Linux
- Easy plug-and-play installation with no additional drivers needed for most systems
Cons:
- May require an external power source on some older computers
- Does not support Blu-ray discs
- Build quality may feel less robust compared to some premium models
The Amicool External DVD Drive is equipped with USB 3.0 and USB-C ports, ensuring high-speed data transfer rates and compatibility with modern laptops and desktops. This makes it an excellent choice for users who frequently transfer large files or burn media discs without delays. Its slim and lightweight profile enhances portability, allowing users to easily carry it alongside their devices for work or entertainment purposes.
Featuring support for both CD and DVD burning and rewriting, this drive offers versatility for creating backups, duplicating discs, or playing multimedia content. The broad compatibility with various operating systems, including the latest Windows 11 and MacOS versions, provides a hassle-free experience with plug-and-play convenience. Overall, the Amicool external drive is a practical and efficient tool for users needing optical media functionality in a compact and portable package.
Roofull External Cd Dvd Drive For Laptop Mac

The ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive is ideal for users who need a reliable and portable optical drive compatible with a variety of devices, including laptops, MacBook Pros, and Linux computers. This device is perfect for students, professionals, and multimedia enthusiasts who want to access or burn CDs and DVDs without built-in drives, especially on modern ultrabooks and slim laptops.
Pros:
- Supports both USB 3.0 and USB-C connections for fast and versatile compatibility.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Comes with a convenient portable carrying case for protection and travel.
- Compatible with multiple operating systems including Windows 11/10, Mac, and Linux.
- Functions as both a CD/DVD reader and writer burner, offering multifunctional use.
Cons:
- May not support some older or very new proprietary disc formats.
- Requires external power supply for some devices, limiting true plug-and-play convenience.
- Black color may show fingerprints or scratches more easily.
The ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive boasts a sleek black design with compact dimensions (0.71 inches in height, 5.5 inches in width and length) and a lightweight build of just 0.77 pounds, making it an excellent companion for on-the-go use. Its dual interface of USB 3.0 and USB-C ensures broad compatibility and fast data transfer speeds, allowing users to quickly access or burn discs without worrying about port limitations. This versatility supports a seamless experience across different devices and operating systems.
Additionally, the included portable carrying case protects the drive during transport, enhancing its durability and convenience for frequent travelers or professionals. The drive’s capability to read and write both CDs and DVDs makes it a versatile tool for backing up data, installing software, or enjoying media content. Overall, the ROOFULL external drive combines functionality with portability, catering to modern users needing reliable optical disc support beyond their device’s built-in hardware.
Lg Gp65nb60 Portable Dvd Writer Drive

The LG GP65NB60 8X USB 2.0 Super Multi Ultra Slim Portable DVD Writer Drive is ideal for users who need a compact, reliable external optical drive. If you frequently work with CDs or DVDs for data backup, media playback, or software installation, and your laptop or desktop lacks a built-in disc drive, this device is a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for students, professionals, and media enthusiasts seeking a portable solution with versatile disc support.
Pros:
- Ultra slim and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Supports 8X writing speed for efficient disc burning.
- Compatible with both DVD+/-RW and M-DISC for long-term data preservation.
- Plug-and-play via USB 2.0 connection, requiring no external power supply.
- Reliable LG brand quality and durability.
Cons:
- Uses USB 2.0, which is slower compared to USB 3.0 or higher interfaces.
- Limited to 8X speed, which may be slower than some competitive models.
- Black color might not appeal to users wanting a different aesthetic.
The LG GP65NB60 combines a sleek, black ultra-slim profile with solid build quality, making it easy to slip into a laptop bag or backpack. Despite its compact size, it supports a wide range of disc formats, including the innovative M-DISC technology that ensures your data remains intact for decades. The USB 2.0 interface allows broad compatibility with most computers, and the drive requires no additional power source, enhancing its portability.
This external DVD writer offers convenient plug-and-play functionality, ideal for users who need to quickly access or burn discs without fuss. While it lacks the speed of newer USB standards, its reliable 8X writing capability delivers consistent performance for everyday use. Overall, the LG GP65NB60 is a practical and efficient solution for anyone requiring a dependable external optical drive with robust format support and ease of use.
Rioddas External Cd/dvd Drive For Laptop

The Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive is ideal for users who need a reliable and portable optical drive for their laptops or desktops. Whether you have a device without a built-in CD/DVD drive or require a convenient external option for reading and writing discs, this product suits students, professionals, and multimedia enthusiasts alike. It supports multiple operating systems, making it perfect for those who switch between Windows, Apple Mac, and Linux environments.
Pros:
- Supports USB 3.0 for faster data transfer speeds.
- Compatible with a wide range of systems including Windows, Apple Mac, and Linux.
- Lightweight and compact design (only 0.4375 pounds) for easy portability.
- Functions as a CD/DVD reader, writer, and disk duplicator.
- Supports both CD and DVD formats, including +/-RW.
- Plug-and-play with no need for external power supply or drivers in most cases.
Cons:
- May require additional software for advanced burning features on some operating systems.
- Not compatible with devices lacking USB ports without adapters.
The Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive offers a versatile solution for accessing and burning discs on modern laptops and desktops. Its USB 3.0 interface ensures quick and efficient data transfers, reducing wait times when reading or writing large files. The drive’s broad compatibility means users don’t need to worry about switching between different operating systems—whether using a Windows PC, Apple MacBook, or Linux machine, this device integrates smoothly.
Designed with portability in mind, the drive’s compact size and light weight make it a convenient accessory to carry along for work, school, or travel. Its ability to read, write, and duplicate discs provides excellent functionality for backing up data, installing software, or enjoying multimedia content. Overall, the Rioddas External CD/DVD Drive combines performance, convenience, and compatibility to meet the needs of users seeking an external optical drive.
Roofull External Cd Dvd Drive For Mac Laptop

The ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive is ideal for users who need a reliable and portable optical disc drive compatible with both Mac laptops and Windows computers. If you own a device without a built-in CD/DVD drive or require a convenient way to read and write discs on the go, this drive offers a perfect solution. It’s especially suited for professionals, students, and multimedia enthusiasts who frequently access or create CDs and DVDs.
Pros:
- Wide compatibility with MacBook Pro, iMac, and various Windows versions (11/10/8/7).
- Dual USB 3.0 & USB-C interfaces for flexible connectivity options.
- Compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Supports multiple disc formats including CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, and DVD-RW.
- Plug-and-play functionality without the need for additional drivers.
Cons:
- Limited to external optical drive speed compared to some internal drives.
- White color may show dirt or scratches more easily over time.
The ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive boasts a sleek and compact design with dimensions of 5.74 x 5.6 x 0.65 inches and weighs just 0.66 pounds, making it an excellent portable companion. Its dual connectivity options via USB 3.0 and USB-C ensure it can easily connect to the latest MacBook models as well as traditional Windows PCs, offering flexibility for users with multiple devices. The drive supports a broad range of optical disc formats, which means you can read and write data, music, videos, and backups without compatibility concerns.
Beyond its functionality, the device is designed for ease of use with a simple plug-and-play setup that requires no extra software installation. This feature is particularly beneficial for users who need quick access to their discs without technical hassle. The white finish complements modern computer aesthetics, especially Apple products, making it not only a functional tool but also a stylish accessory. Overall, the ROOFULL External CD DVD Drive combines convenience, performance, and broad compatibility to meet the needs of anyone relying on optical media today.
External Cd/dvd Drive For Laptop

The External CD/DVD Drive for Laptop by BPAKDU is perfect for users who need a reliable, portable optical drive compatible with multiple operating systems. Ideal for laptop owners without built-in CD/DVD drives, professionals requiring data backup or media playback, and anyone seeking a versatile USB 3.0 external disk drive that supports both reading and burning CDs and DVDs.
Pros:
- Ultra-slim and lightweight design for easy portability
- Fast USB 3.0 connectivity ensures quick data transfer
- Compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7, Mac, and Linux systems
- Supports 8-in-1 functions including CD/DVD reading and burning
- Plug-and-play operation with no external power source needed
Cons:
- Limited to optical media and does not support Blu-ray discs
- Black color may show fingerprints easily
This external optical drive features a sleek, compact build measuring 6.57 inches in height, 0.98 inches in width, and 6.56 inches in length, making it highly portable and easy to carry along with your laptop or desktop setup. The device’s USB 3.0 interface provides fast and stable data transmission, which significantly reduces waiting times when accessing or burning discs. Its broad compatibility ensures that users on various platforms including Mac, Windows, and Linux can seamlessly integrate this device into their systems.
Equipped with 8-in-1 functionality, this external drive not only reads CDs and DVDs but also burns discs, allowing for versatile use cases such as data backup, media playback, and software installation. The plug-and-play design means you can connect it without needing additional drivers or power adapters, enhancing convenience for users on the go. Overall, BPAKDU’s external CD/DVD drive offers a practical and efficient solution for those needing reliable optical media access in a modern, portable form factor.
Viktck Usb-c Superdrive External Dvd/cd Reader And Dvd/cd Burner

The VikTck USB-C Superdrive External DVD/CD Reader and Burner is ideal for users who require reliable optical media access on devices without built-in drives. This includes owners of Apple MacBook Air, MacBook Pro, iMac, Mac Mini, as well as users of certain ASUS and DELL Latitude laptops equipped with a USB-C port. If you frequently work with DVDs or CDs for data transfer, media playback, or disc burning, this plug-and-play external drive offers a convenient and portable solution.
Pros:
- Plug and play functionality with no need for additional drivers.
- Compact and lightweight design with dimensions of 5.4 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches and weighing only 0.66 pounds.
- Compatible with a wide range of devices featuring a USB-C port, including popular Apple and Windows laptops.
- Supports both DVD/CD reading and burning, enhancing versatility.
- Attractive silver finish that complements modern device aesthetics.
Cons:
- Requires a USB-C port, so older devices without this may need an adapter.
- Does not include software for disc burning; users need to use third-party applications.
- Limited to optical media; no support for Blu-ray discs.
The VikTck USB-C Superdrive boasts a sleek, minimalist design with a durable silver exterior, perfectly matching the style of contemporary laptops. Its lightweight and compact build make it highly portable, allowing users to carry it effortlessly for on-the-go use. The plug-and-play feature ensures easy setup—simply connect it to your device’s USB-C port and start accessing or burning discs without hassle.
Functionally, this external drive supports both DVD/CD reading and burning, catering to a variety of user needs such as data backup, media playback, and disc creation. Compatibility across multiple platforms, including Apple MacBook Air/Pro and popular Windows laptops like ASUS and DELL Latitude, ensures broad usability. Overall, it provides a practical and efficient solution for those seeking to maintain access to optical media in the modern USB-C era.
Origbelie External Dvd Drive

The ORIGBELIE External DVD Drive is ideal for users who require a reliable and portable optical disk solution for their laptops, PCs, or desktop computers. Whether you are a student needing to access or burn CDs and DVDs, a professional handling media files, or someone who prefers physical media over digital downloads, this device offers compatibility across multiple operating systems including Mac, Windows, and Linux. If your device lacks a built-in optical drive, this external adapter is a convenient choice.
Pros:
- Supports fast data transfer with USB 3.0 Type-C connectivity
- Compatible with multiple operating systems: Mac, Windows, Linux
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Supports reading and writing to various disc formats including CD/DVD ROM and DVD burner
- Additional USB port for connecting other devices
Cons:
- Requires an available USB Type-C or adapter for older USB ports
- Not suitable for users who have completely transitioned to cloud storage and streaming
- Does not include an internal power supply, relying solely on USB power which may affect performance on some systems
The ORIGBELIE External DVD Drive features a sleek black design with dimensions of 5.71 inches in length, 5.51 inches in width, and a height of just 0.63 inches, making it a discreet and portable addition to your tech setup. Its lightweight construction, weighing under one pound, ensures it can be easily carried in a laptop bag or backpack. The drive supports a wide range of optical discs including CD, DVD, CD-RW, and DVD-RW, allowing users to play, burn, or back up important files with ease. The inclusion of a USB 3.0 Type-C interface facilitates rapid data transfer speeds, significantly reducing wait times when accessing or writing large multimedia files.
Beyond its core functionality, this external drive enhances user convenience by incorporating an extra USB port, which can be used to connect peripherals or charge devices. This dual-purpose design benefits users who often find themselves limited by the number of USB ports on their computers. Furthermore, its broad compatibility ensures that whether you use a Mac, Windows PC, or Linux system, the drive will integrate seamlessly without the need for additional drivers or software. Overall, the ORIGBELIE External DVD Drive is a versatile and efficient tool for anyone needing dependable optical media access on modern computing devices.
External Dvd Drive Usb 3.0 Type-c Cd Burner

The External DVD Drive USB 3.0 Type-C is ideal for users who need a reliable and portable solution for reading and writing CDs and DVDs. Whether you are a student, professional, or media enthusiast with a modern laptop, desktop, or MacBook that lacks an internal optical drive, this device offers seamless compatibility with multiple operating systems including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. It is perfect for those who require convenient access to physical media for data backup, software installation, or media playback.
Pros:
- Supports fast USB 3.0 and Type-C connection for high-speed data transfer
- Compatible with a wide range of operating systems including Windows, Mac OS, and Linux
- Portable and lightweight design with compact dimensions (0.8 x 6.4 x 6.4 inches)
- Functions as both a CD burner and DVD player, supporting CD +/-RW and DVD ROM
- Plug and play with no additional drivers needed for most systems
Cons:
- May require an external power source for some older laptops
- No built-in storage; strictly for optical media use
- Performance dependent on the quality of USB ports and cables used
Featuring a sleek Upgrade Black finish, the Ziweo External DVD Drive offers a perfect blend of style and functionality. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in a laptop bag or backpack, enabling users to access or burn discs anytime and anywhere. The device supports USB 3.0 and Type-C interfaces, ensuring rapid data transfer speeds that significantly reduce waiting times when reading or writing discs compared to older USB standards.
This external drive supports a variety of disc formats including CD +/-RW and DVD ROM, providing versatile use whether you need to play media, install software, or back up important files. Additionally, its broad compatibility with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux systems makes it a universal accessory for virtually any user, eliminating worries about driver installations or system conflicts. Overall, this portable DVD burner is a practical and efficient solution for anyone requiring optical media functionality on modern devices without built-in drives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which External Dvd/cd Drives Are Best For Mac Compatibility?
The Amicool, ROOFULL, and VikTck external DVD/CD drives offer excellent Mac compatibility. They support macOS and include USB-C or USB 3. 0 connections for seamless plug-and-play use with MacBook and iMac models.
Do These Drives Support Both Dvd And Cd Burning?
Yes, all listed drives support DVD and CD burning, including DVD+/-RW and CD-RW formats. They work well for reading, writing, and duplicating discs on Mac and other operating systems.
Can I Use These Drives With Usb-c Ports On Macbooks?
Most drives, like Amicool and ROOFULL, include USB-C connectivity. This ensures direct compatibility with modern MacBooks without needing additional adapters.
Are These External Drives Portable And Easy To Carry?
Yes, models such as ROOFULL and Rioddas are slim and lightweight. They come with carrying cases, making them ideal for travel and on-the-go use with Mac laptops.
Do These Drives Support The Latest Macos Versions?
All recommended drives support macOS versions including Big Sur and later. They also work with Windows and Linux, providing versatile multi-OS functionality.
What Speed Can I Expect From These External Dvd/cd Drives?
Most drives offer speeds up to 8X for DVD writing and faster for CDs. USB 3. 0 and USB-C interfaces ensure quick data transfer and smooth performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best external DVD/CD drive for your Mac depends on your needs and budget. Each option offers easy connection with USB 3. 0 or USB-C ports. Slim and portable designs make them great for travel or desk use. Many models support reading and writing multiple disc types, including DVDs, CDs, and even M-DISC for long-term storage.
Compatibility with Mac and other systems like Windows and Linux adds flexibility. Consider the drive’s speed, portability, and extra features like carrying cases or duplicator functions. This helps you find a device that fits your daily tasks without hassle. With the right external drive, accessing or backing up your data becomes simple and efficient.
Pick one that matches your Mac model and enjoy smooth performance for your optical disc needs.